Belgium plans to nationalise nuclear power plants
Belgium plans to nationalise its nuclear power plants by acquiring them from French energy company Engie to ensure long-term energy security and reverse previous nuclear phase-out policies. The government intends to suspend decommissioning of five reactors and extend operations of the remaining two until 2035, while also pursuing new nuclear capacity. This shift reflects a broader European trend of re-evaluating nuclear energy amid climate and energy supply concerns.
- ▪Belgium's government plans a full takeover of its seven nuclear reactors from Engie by 1 October.
- ▪The move suspends the decommissioning of five reactors and extends the operating licences of two active reactors until 2035.
- ▪Belgium aims to develop new nuclear capacity and ensure energy security, reversing a phase-out policy from the early 2000s.
- ▪Only two of Belgium's seven reactors are currently operational, located at Doel and Tihange.
- ▪Neighbouring countries, particularly Germany, have expressed safety concerns over Belgium's ageing nuclear plants.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Belgium plans to nationalise nuclear power plants22 minutes agoShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleGetty ImagesBelgium's government has said it is planning to buy its nuclear reactors from French power giant Engie, in order to secure the country's energy supplies.Prime Minister Bart De Wever said the deal would involve "a full takeover" of the nuclear fleet, including Belgium's seven ageing nuclear reactors.The move would also mean suspending plans to decommission nuclear operations in Belgium."This government is choosing safe, affordable and sustainable energy, with less dependence on fossil fuel imports and more control over our own supply," De Wever posted on X.The move would reverse the phase-out of nuclear energy legislation approved in the early 2000s amid safety concerns prohibiting…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at BBC News — World.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from BBC News — World
